Arragon Road Boxing Club

Justifying the Worth of a Derelict Community Centre

Location: London
Architect: Synergy Property Consultants
Budget: N/A
Feasibility & Survey

The Arragon Road Community Hall, a historic building constructed in 1912, served the community for almost a century until it fell into disuse in the early 2000s.

The building suffered significant damage over time, with a damaged roof and nature infiltrating the structure in various ways. The walls were affected by rising damp, and dry rot had taken hold, with large fruiting bodies present.

The building's construction featured masonry walls, a steel trussed main hall, and side halls and rooms roofed with an innovative form of expanded mesh reinforced concrete.

Although the building's condition had deteriorated significantly, it was not beyond repair. Initially scheduled for demolition, a contractor has now been appointed to transform the building into a community boxing club, giving it a new lease of life. Newham Council has also taken up the challenge of the Climate Emergency, recognising the importance of refurbishing existing structures, and has committed to restoring this once-proud building.

The project to bring the Arragon Road Community Hall back into use is expected to be completed by 2024. The restoration effort will involve significant work, but the building's historical significance and potential to serve the community once again make it a worthwhile undertaking.